There’s a lot to be excited about when it comes to Toy Story 5 (2026). The teaser already has fans buzzing with glimpses of Woody, Buzz, and Jessie waving to the audience, suggesting that the core trio is back together for one more round of animated magic. Pixar has confirmed that the upcoming film will explore the challenge of modern kids being more interested in tablets than toys—a clever and timely angle for this next adventure.
With Andrew Stanton back in the director’s chair and both Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reprising their iconic roles, things seem to be lining up nicely. Allen has even teased that Jessie might be taking on a bigger role this time around, which could bring a refreshing shift in dynamics for the gang. All signs point to a thoughtful and nostalgic return to a world so many of us grew up with.
But even amid the excitement, there’s one character whose future remains uncertain—and it’s got fans more than a little uneasy.
Don Rickles’ Absence Still Felt Years Later
For many longtime fans, Toy Story just wouldn’t feel complete without Mr. Potato Head. His dry sarcasm, quick wit, and unique personality—brought to life by the late Don Rickles—have made him a staple of the franchise. But Rickles sadly passed away in 2017, two years before Toy Story 4 (2019) hit theaters.
Pixar managed to keep Mr. Potato Head involved in the fourth installment by pulling together archived voice recordings from previous movies, games, and theme park attractions. It was a touching tribute, and one that allowed Rickles’ signature style to remain intact.
Now, though, the team behind Toy Story 5 faces a difficult decision: how do you include Mr. Potato Head without Rickles, and without losing the charm that made the character so beloved?
Pixar Hasn’t Confirmed His Return—And That’s Telling
As of now, Pixar hasn’t confirmed whether Mr. Potato Head will be featured in the upcoming film. That lack of confirmation has only amplified fan concerns. After all, it’s hard to picture a Toy Story movie without one of its most iconic side characters, even if his role has always been more comedic relief than central plot-driver.
Recasting the voice would be a bold—and risky—move. Rickles brought something truly unique to the role. His line delivery, the tone of his voice, even his pauses… those little things are difficult to replicate. And for fans who grew up hearing that familiar voice, a replacement could feel like too much of a departure.
Of course, Pixar isn’t a stranger to technological creativity. It’s possible they could turn once again to unused recordings, or even utilize AI-based voice tools to recreate Rickles’ sound. But even that brings ethical and emotional considerations into the mix.
Mr. Potato Head’s Legacy Looms Large
Whether or not he appears in Toy Story 5, Mr. Potato Head will still be felt throughout the film. His snarky comments and side-eyes have always helped balance out the emotional weight of the stories. He was a grounding presence in the toy room—and a reminder that not every toy sees the world through rose-colored glasses.
Fans also know that this next chapter might be a turning point for the series. With so much time having passed since Toy Story 4, and with a storyline that deals directly with shifting generational behaviors, this film has the chance to reframe how we think about toys, imagination, and nostalgia.
That’s exactly why Mr. Potato Head matters so much. He connects the old Toy Story world to the new one. His voice, once so reliably snarky, is now a bittersweet symbol of how much has changed.
Hope—and Hesitation—as Release Nears
There’s still hope that Mr. Potato Head finds his way into the story, even if it’s just in a limited or cleverly executed way. And if anyone can pull it off with class and creativity, it’s Pixar. But fans are bracing themselves for the possibility that this may be the first Toy Story film without a new contribution from Don Rickles.
It’s a strange feeling—looking forward to a movie you know is going to be great, while simultaneously knowing a little piece of it might be missing.
In the end, it’s not just about one toy with removable parts. It’s about what he represented. And for a franchise built around the emotional lives of inanimate objects, that kind of impact is hard to ignore. Whether or not he returns, Mr. Potato Head will always be part of the Toy Story legacy—and fans will be watching closely to see how Pixar handles his presence, or absence, in 2026.
